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Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta

The true native bluebell is a scented deep blue/purple flower, which hangs down from the arching stem. This common favourite ought not be confused with the foreign species of bluebells.

Conservation status

There are still woodland areas where the plants may be found in quantity, but there have been significant thefts of bluebell bulbs. The introduction of the non-native muntjac deer is causing many problems as these animals are partial to eating bluebell leaves, eating them to the ground in some cases, and trampling them. The rapid spread of foreign bluebells, including the Spanish bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica) and the hybird Hyacinthoides x massartiana, is also a problem as they are more vigorous than the native species with which they also readily hybridise.

Details

Did you know?

Bluebell bulbs produce an extremely sticky substance which was once used to stick pages in books, and feathers on arrows.

How to recognise

True native bluebell flowers are deep purple/blue, tubular, turn up at the ends and are scented. The flowers hang down from arching stems. They should not be confused with the imported Spanish bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica) which bear flowers all round the stems, have wider and paler blue flowers which are not turned up at the ends, are largely unscented, and have rapidly spread from gardens. Hybrids of the two species are becoming more common. The leaves of both species are long narrow and shiny. Occasionally flowers of both species may be found which are pink or white.

Where to see

Bluebells prefer to grow in light to moderate shade and may often be found in patches of hundreds or thousands of plants seen at their best in beech or mixed native woodlands, such as NWT Foxley Wood.

When to see

In an average year bluebells will start to flower from mid to late April until the first two to three weeks of May. They can produce a great deal of seed so young plants at all stages of growth may often be seen.

Related reserves

Related questions & advice

Are there any wildlife friendly plants I can grow between the cracks of my patio slabs?

You don't need a huge garden to attract wildife, any open area can be managed for the benefit of wildlife. If you have a patio area why not plant some low growing plants in the cracks and gaps. By doing this you will be providing a valuable habitat and food for a variety of small animals. Bellflower, cranesbill, herb robert, purple saxifrage and thrift are just a few plants that will happily grow in such an environment.